Pelonia had a struggle sometimes to act true to her faith, putting her faith in God to help her and to be her strength, which is the experience of all Christians. It truly was about people of faith living their lives. The narrative never came off as pedantic or filled with spiritual public service announcements. The message of God’s love and how it gave Pelonia strength and how it could heal Caros’ deep emotional wounds was rich. Capshaw did such a great job of showing this without it being preachy. I loved how the love story was full, and it was as much about the love between Pelonia and Caros, as it was also Pelonia’s love for Christ, and how she was able to come into Caros’ life and to help him to heal and to come to know Christ. I have long been wishing to read a Christian romance that delivered such a rich story as this. I also liked the secondary characters, some who have their own stories in other books in this series, which I look forward to reading.Ī romantic, different, and exciting read by Carla Capshaw. The building trust and love between Pelonia and Caros. Caros, trying to understand Pelonia’s devotion to Christ.

There was the horror and tension of the Christian slaves being murdered in the arena. The story had great descriptions and atmosphere. Wow, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was so good! I loved the unique storyline and the setting, in ancient Rome. Pelonia wants to be set free, but how can Caros let her go when he is falling for her?

He won his freedom, eventually, after doing so well in the ring.

In the past he was also sold into slavery and forced to fight in the arena, or die. He is attracted to her, and once he hears her story, he is compassionate. Ex-gladiator, Caros Viriathos, who is now a gladiator trainer, buys Pelonia as a slave. In 81 AD, a Christian (Pelonia Valeria) is sold into slavery by her evil uncle after her family and servants are killed by marauders on their way to her cousin’s wedding.

The Gladiator by Carla Capshaw